How to make navy royal icing?

How to Make Navy Royal Icing: A Step-by-Step Guide

What is Royal Icing?

Royal icing is a type of icing made from powdered sugar and egg whites, used to decorate cakes, cookies, and other baked goods. It’s a popular choice for its versatility, durability, and ability to hold intricate designs. In this article, we’ll focus on making navy royal icing, a deep blue color often used for patriotic-themed baked goods, such as Fourth of July cakes and cupcakes.

Ingredients and Equipment

To make navy royal icing, you’ll need the following ingredients and equipment:

• Ingredients:

  • 1 cup (200g) powdered sugar
  • 2 large egg whites
  • 1 teaspoon cream of tartar
  • 1 tablespoon water
  • 1/4 teaspoon navy blue food coloring (optional)

• Equipment:

  • Stand mixer or hand mixer
  • Whisk attachment or beaters
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Electric spatula
  • Pastry bag and tip (optional)

Making the Royal Icing

Follow these steps to make navy royal icing:

Step 1: Mix the Powdered Sugar and Cream of Tartar

In a large mixing bowl, combine the powdered sugar and cream of tartar.

• Why cream of tartar? Cream of tartar helps to stabilize the egg whites and prevent them from separating from the sugar.

Mix until well combined.

Step 2: Beat the Egg Whites

In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites until they become frothy.

• Tips:

  • Use room temperature egg whites for better results.
  • Beat the egg whites until they become frothy, but not too stiff. You want them to remain slightly runny.

Step 3: Add the Egg Whites to the Sugar Mixture

Slowly add the beaten egg whites to the powdered sugar mixture, beating continuously with a whisk or beaters.

• Important: Beat the mixture until it becomes smooth and there are no lumps. If the mixture is too stiff, add a small amount of water (1 teaspoon at a time).

Step 4: Add the Navy Blue Food Coloring (Optional)

If you want to achieve a deeper navy blue color, add 1/4 teaspoon of navy blue food coloring to the mixture and mix well.

• Tips:

  • Use a high-quality food coloring for the best results.
  • Start with a small amount of food coloring and adjust to your desired shade.

Step 5: Consistency Check

Check the consistency of the royal icing by lifting some of the mixture with a spatula or spoon. If it’s too runny, add a small amount of powdered sugar. If it’s too stiff, add a small amount of water.

Tips and Variations

• Thicker or thinner icing: Adjust the consistency of the royal icing by adding more powdered sugar or water.
• Color variations: Experiment with different food coloring shades to create unique colors, such as light blue, sky blue, or dark blue.
• Flavored royal icing: Add a few drops of extract (e.g., almond or lemon) to the royal icing for a unique flavor.
• Royal icing pens: Use a pastry bag and tip to create detailed designs and patterns with your navy royal icing.

Troubleshooting

• Too runny: Add more powdered sugar (1 teaspoon at a time) to thicken the icing.
• Too stiff: Add a small amount of water (1 teaspoon at a time) to thin the icing.
• Separation: If the icing separates, start again with new egg whites and powdered sugar. If the separation is due to overbeating, you can try to mix the icing again, but be careful not to overbeat.

Conclusion

Making navy royal icing is a simple process that requires some basic ingredients and equipment. By following these steps and tips, you can create a beautiful, vibrant navy blue icing perfect for decorating your baked goods. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner, practice makes perfect, so don’t be afraid to experiment and adjust the recipe to your liking.

Navy Royal Icing Consistency Chart

Navy Royal Icing Color Chart

I hope this article helps you to make beautiful navy royal icing for your baked goods. Happy decorating!